Throw the book at rock throwers
JOBURG – The Automobile Association says culprits must not be spared the full extent of the law.
The Automobile Association (AA) has noted with concern yet another incident of rock throwing at vehicles. According to reports, the latest incident occurred earlier this week in Glen Anil in KwaZulu-Natal.
“These attacks, because this is how they must be viewed, are barbaric and cowardly. Throwing rocks off bridges onto vehicles below is extremely dangerous and can, as we have seen, cause death and severe injuries to the driver and passengers of the vehicles,” said the association.
The AA said that while there is no perfect solution to dealing with a rock being thrown onto your vehicle, the following tips could be useful:
If possible, avoid driving on roads known for rock throwing
Be alert to movement on a bridge before you go under it
As far as possible, drive during daylight hours to make seeing the environment around you easier
If there are passengers in the vehicle with you, ask them to check for any movement on the bridge
If you are the victim of a thrown rock, try and remain as calm as you possibly can while assessing the situation around you
Pull off to the side of the road, once it is safe to do so, to check on damage
Contact police and emergency services immediately.
“There is a practice to change lanes immediately before entering a bridge to avoid becoming a victim. This may work if there is no other traffic around, and you are able to move freely between lanes. However, this is problematic if there are other cars who have the same idea. Stick to the speed limit, always obey the rules of the road, and always be vigilant of what other drivers are doing,” suggested the AA.
The association said authorities in areas where rock throwing has occurred have an obligation to position extra personnel on bridges and to follow up on all complaints received.
“The re-emergence of rock throwing is scary and despicable. Everything must be done to track down the culprits and, once in custody, they must not be spared the full extent of the law,” the AA concluded.
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